A Harsh Reality for Pensioners Amid Rising Costs
The Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) recently announced a 2.9% pension increase for pensioners, effective 1 April 2025.
While this increase is being presented as a commitment to maintaining pensioners’ purchasing power, many retirees are left wondering how this small adjustment can realistically cover the ever-rising cost of living. For a pensioner receiving R2200 per month, the 2.9% increase amounts to just R63.80, bringing their new monthly pension to R2263.80. Given the soaring costs of food, electricity, healthcare, and transport, this increase is, at best, a token gesture rather than meaningful financial relief.
The Reality Behind the Numbers.
The 2.9% increase is supposedly based on the inflation rate for the 12 months ending November 2024, which the GEPF claims is in line with its legal obligations. However, many pensioners argue that real inflation—especially for essential goods and services—far exceeds this percentage. While the GEPF boasts that this increase covers 100% of the reported inflation rate, the truth is that pensioners continue to struggle with rising food prices, municipal tariffs, and medical expenses. In many cases, these costs have increased by double digits over the past year, making a 2.9% adjustment almost meaningless.
A Disgraceful Adjustment?
For pensioners who have dedicated decades of service to the country, this increase feels more like an insult than a benefit. With many retirees already barely surviving, it raises concerns about whether the GEPF truly understands or cares about the daily financial struggles pensioners face. The GEPF states that all adjustments are subject to the fund’s financial affordability, yet pensioners are forced to accept cuts in their real income while executives and board members continue to enjoy comfortable financial packages.
The Question Remains
How long can pensioners be expected to survive on below – inflation increases while the cost of living keeps rising?
“While the government speaks of affordability, many pensioners wonder where the money is really going. Those in power enjoy high salaries and benefits, while pensioners struggle to survive on increases that don’t keep up with reality. It’s time for their voices to be heard—this isn’t just unfair, it’s deeply concerning.”
Because right now, pensioners are expected to just accept whatever crumbs they’re given.
